Hello, my darling dancers! It's your favourite tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, here, ready to whisk you back in time for another exciting Tutu Tuesday! Today we're pirouetting back to the year 1843, and oh, my dears, you'd be positively delighted to see how much has changed since the days of crinolines and bonnets.
The 4th of July 1843 - a day marked by history and, believe it or not, by the ever-so-slight emergence of the tutu! Yes, you heard that right! While we still have quite a way to go before the modern, swirling tulle we all know and love comes into play, there's a distinct movement towards lightness and freedom on the stage. It's like the fashion gods have heard our prayers for less restrictive attire and whispered to the ballerinas to fly!
Now, this era was very much defined by the "Romantic Ballet", which embraced delicate storylines and a lot of ethereal charm. So, think flowing fabrics, soft lighting, and a touch of whimsical magic!
I must say, it was absolutely thrilling to step off the train in London this week (yes, darling, I love travelling by train – the gentle rumble is so very romantic!) and find myself whisked straight to the theatre! The stage is aglow with soft lights, and there on stage, you see ballerinas in silk, a far cry from the harsh cotton that dominated fashion a century ago! The designs were definitely shorter than a traditional ball gown, showcasing beautifully turned ankles and gracefully extended legs - you see, a dash of peek-a-boo was already taking its place on the stage. Imagine - shorter, less cumbersome, all the while flowing gracefully!
What were the stars performing you ask? I couldn't help myself but be captivated by the incredible Giselle! The ballet itself is a poignant story of a young village maiden who succumbs to a supernatural curse, and its impact on stage is absolutely enchanting! And I must say, it truly highlighted how beautifully delicate ballerinas could move, and just look at their legs! The shorter skirts allowed the graceful moves of the legs and feet to be showcased. Absolutely beautiful!
Naturally, I spent the next day with a visit to the famous Regent Street, soaking up the latest trends and finding all the most captivating materials. And let me tell you, muslin is the fabric du jour! It's the very embodiment of light, airy elegance, which fits perfectly with the Romantic Ballet's style. This fabric drapes like a dream, creating such ethereal silhouettes, oh I’m sure we will be seeing much more of it in the future of the tutu!
Of course, a little retail therapy was just what my tutu-loving heart needed after the exhilarating show. While I couldn't find a single full-blown tutu – imagine, just a beautiful swathe of silk! There was nothing but glorious ribbons and laces, some perfectly fitting for the creation of my new tutu!
The fashion world is a beautiful tapestry of trends and time. I always find myself amazed at how it both echoes and evolves. The 1840s are brimming with a delicate romanticism, just waiting for a good twist of the fabric to reveal its true potential! And oh, it’s so wonderfully exciting, isn't it?
Until next time, darlings, I'm off to explore the Parisian ateliers. Until next week when I have found some of the newest trends of Parisian fashion and will reveal them here for you on my #TutuTuesday blog on pink-tutu.com, with all the excitement that it brings. Until next week, dance your way through your days with a twirl in your step and a spring in your heart!
Always wear a smile and keep twirling!
Emma
P.S. I would love to hear what you're loving in the world of fashion right now, darling. Share your finds in the comments below and let's spread the love of a twirl around the world!
